In Ludwigsburg, Germany, nearly 500 women gathered in person—with hundreds more joining online—for the Women in Automotive Summit. This remarkable event was a celebration of leadership, innovation, and inclusion in one of the world’s most transformative industries. Among the attendees was Emma Hilton, Vistatec’s Director of Global Business Development, who represented the company at this trailblazing forum.
Vistatec is committed to championing diversity in the automotive sector and beyond. This summit explored the future of the industry and inclusion’s role in shaping it.
Women at the Wheel of Industry Transformation
Electrification, digitalization, sustainability, and mobility services are at the forefront of the current shift in the automotive industry. Linda Jackson, CEO of Peugeot, spoke in her keynote interview about how this disruption is creating unparalleled opportunities for women to enter and excel in the sector. Her candid advice? “Feel the fear and do it anyway.”
Executives like Barbara Frenkel of Porsche AG and leaders in the fields of IT, cybersecurity, procurement, and much more were in attendance. The summit highlighted the strides women have made in once-male-dominated roles. Emma observed, “The sheer caliber of the speakers and panelists demonstrates the value of diverse perspectives in navigating this industry’s complexities.”
Key Themes from the Summit
Leadership Stories That Inspired Action
There were transformative and career growth stories by trailblazing leaders such as Barbara Frenkel, Member of the Executive Board at Porsche, Andrea Seidel of Daimler Truck, Fedra Ribeiro of Bosch, Louise Brook-Jakisch of Deloitte, and Tania Khasal of Cariad. Discussions highlighted resilience, teamwork, and the importance of stepping out of one’s comfort zone.
Sustainability as an Obligation and Opportunity
Sustainability emerged as a central theme. Laurence Noel of Capgemini explained that it’s not just about compliance; it’s a chance to rewrite the industry’s narrative. Luxury brands, in particular, are redefining themselves through carbon-neutral production, sustainable materials, and renewable energy.
Vistatec’s work in automotive localization aligns perfectly with these sustainability efforts as we help brands communicate their green initiatives to global markets.
Software-Driven Futures
Another focal point was the move towards software-managed vehicles. Panel discussions explored how software, electrification, and mobility as a service are reshaping customer experiences.
The intersection of technology and localization creates an exciting space where Vistatec’s expertise can empower brands to deliver seamless user experiences, regardless of language or market.
Inclusive Business Practices
Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) were recurring themes, with speakers challenging traditional mindsets and advocating for workplaces that reflect today’s world. As Simon McDermott, VP of Toyota Motor Europe, aptly put it, “Diversity is more than a conversation about gender; it’s about ensuring a creative and inclusive industry.”
Other Highlights
We were impressed by the interactive workshops that took place beyond the keynotes and panel discussions. “Negotiating for Women,” led by Christiane Stein of S&P Global Mobility, was a standout as it focused on practical strategies for getting ahead in traditionally male-dominated environments. Negotiating promotions and advocating for salary increases were just some of the valuable topics covered.
The day finished with an Awards and Networking Cocktail Reception to celebrate the achievements of individuals and organizations. It seemed a very fitting end to a day that showcased the power of collaboration and community.
Business Impact Beyond the Summit
Vistatec’s presence at the Women in Automotive Summit is about more than visibility—it’s about aligning with an industry at the crossroads of innovation and inclusion. By attending, we not only gained insights but also strengthened Vistatec’s position as a partner ready to support the future of automotive localization.
The summit’s focus on electrification, sustainability, and digital transformation aligns with our strengths. Localization is critical to ensuring brands communicate their messages to the highest standard internationally. Adapting user interfaces for software-managed vehicles and tailoring sustainability initiatives to diverse markets are just some of the solutions that Vistatec is fully equipped to deliver.
Looking Ahead
Women are shaping the future of the automotive industry—not just as leaders but as innovators and changemakers. Vistatec is proud to be part of that journey.
Events like the Women in Automotive Summit are vital springboards to a more inclusive, innovative, and sustainable future.
Contact us to learn more about how Vistatec can support your brand in driving the future of the automotive industry.